Govt Pushes Ahead With Accelerated Presidential Housing Scheme

The Government of Zimbabwe has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to affordable and decent housing through the Accelerated Presidential Housing Scheme, a flagship national development programme under Vision 2030.

Speaking at an engagement meeting held at Umguza Rural District Council (RDC) on Saturday, the Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Hon. Albert Mavunga, urged developers, local authorities, and government agencies to intensify collaboration and ensure that housing projects meet national standards.

“This initiative is more than a construction project; it is a nation-building endeavour,” said Mavunga.

“We are building our nation brick upon brick and stone upon stone.”

The meeting brought together senior government officials, developers, and representatives from various ministries, including the Deputy Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities, Hon. M Ncube, and the Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Welfare, Hon. M. Dinha.

Mavunga emphasised that while the government is pushing for accelerated delivery, compliance with regulations remains key to safeguarding the quality and sustainability of the new settlements.

“Compliance is not merely about fulfilling administrative requirements. It is about ensuring that what we build today endures tomorrow—safe, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of our people,” he said.

A Fact-Finding Report compiled by the Ministry was tabled at the meeting, outlining recommendations to strengthen efficiency and accountability among developers. The report encourages better coordination between councils, private developers, and central government ministries.

Local authorities were urged to actively monitor developments to ensure alignment with district planning bylaws and environmental standards.

“Development that lasts is built on strong partnerships between government, the private sector, and communities,” Mavhunga said.

The Deputy Minister stated that the government wants projects that “deliver dignity, inclusion, and a sense of belonging,” reinforcing that beneficiaries should receive not only houses but complete and serviced communities with water, roads, and social services.

After the plenary session, officials toured ongoing housing projects in Umguza to assess progress and compliance.

The visit forms part of a national monitoring programme being rolled out in several districts to accelerate housing delivery.

The meeting concluded with closing remarks from the Deputy Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities, followed by a scheduled site tour and departure.

The Accelerated Presidential Housing Scheme forms part of the government’s wider strategy to deliver housing and urban development solutions in line with Vision 2030, which seeks to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy.

“The cornerstone of Vision 2030 requires us all to be the light that brings hope and accelerates development,” Mavunga said.